Formal Written Methods

Examples of formal written methods for addition, subtraction, multiplication and division.

The following examples show formal written methods for all four operations to illustrate the range of methods that could be taught. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list, nor is it intended to show progression in formal written methods. For example, the exact position of intermediate calculations (superscript and subscript digits) will vary depending on the method and format used.

Examples above reproduced under the terms of the UK Open Government Licence. Reference: DFE-00180-2013

Extract from the UK Year 6 programme of study:

Pupils should be taught to:

multiply multi-digit numbers up to 4 digits by a two-digit whole number using the formal written method of long multiplication

divide numbers up to 4 digits by a two-digit whole number using the formal written method of long division, and interpret remainders as whole number remainders, fractions, or by rounding, as appropriate for the context;

divide numbers up to 4 digits by a two-digit number using the formal written method of short division where appropriate, interpreting remainders according to the context.

Suggested

Number Skills Inventory

A checklist of basic numeracy techniques that every pupil should know.

The short web address is:

Transum.org/go/?to=nsi

Suggested

Digivide

Arrange the numbers from 1 to 6 in the spaces to make the division calculation correct.

The short web address is:

Transum.org/go/?to=digivide

Suggested

Nine Nine Nine

Use the digits 1 to 9 to make three 3 digit numbers which add up to 999.

The short web address is:

Transum.org/go/?to=999

Suggested

Centexpression

Arrange the numbers from 1 to 9 to make an expression with a value of 100.

The short web address is:

Transum.org/go/?to=centex

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